§ Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what staff grades within her Department are given business ethics training; [70528]
(2) what amount of business ethics training she has given to her staff, broken down by how many (a) staff have received the training and (b) training days; and if she will make a statement; [70526]
(3) what companies have given her Department business ethics training in the last five years; and how much this cost; [70525]
(4) what business ethics training is given to her staff; and if she will make a statement. [70527]
§ Ms Hewitt[holding answer 22 July 2002]:: Business ethics and corporate governance are discussed periodically at Board level. The Department does not provide specific business ethics training to all staff, but ensures that all are aware of the Civil Service Code (which covers Service ethics more broadly).
DTI staff working on the regulatory framework for companies, professions and employment, and on DTI policy towards corporate social responsibility, are aware of the ethical issues in these sectors. In some areas, for example in relation to auditors, the DTI has a formal role in underpinning ethical requirements. Heads of Management Unit in these areas have devolved responsibility for specialised training. This is not centrally recorded.